Published on
The 18-year-old passenger who died aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship over the weekend has been identified as Anna Kepner, a high-achieving Titusville High School senior remembered by her family and community for her warmth, spirit, and compassion.
Kepner was traveling with family on the ship’s route from Miami to the Caribbean when she passed away. The vessel returned to Port Miami on Saturday morning, where federal agents and medical examiners boarded as part of an ongoing FBI investigation into her death. Authorities have not yet released an official cause.
According to a statement provided to ABC News, Anna’s family described her as a “happy, bubbly, straight-A student with a bright future ahead.” She was preparing to graduate in May and had recently completed testing to join the U.S. military, already speaking with recruiters about her career path.
“When she walked into a room, she would light it up,” her family said. “If you were sad, she’d make you laugh. She would joke around and be the funniest little person in school.”
Carnival Cruise Line confirmed her passing in a statement, saying, “Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI.”
Anna’s family and friends say she lived life to the fullest. She began gymnastics at age two, later becoming a member of her high school’s varsity cheerleading team. She loved the water, earning both her boater’s license and scuba certification, and she enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and her beloved grandmother, who affectionately called her “Anna Banana.”
“She was the best child you could ever meet,” her family shared. “We’ll always remember her for who she was.”
Aqua-Mart in Titusville, where Anna frequently volunteered alongside her grandparents, also shared a heartfelt public statement mourning her loss.
“Anna was a huge part of our Aqua-Mart family,” the business wrote. “She worked tirelessly helping us move into our new building and always made everything perfect. There won’t be a single day that goes by that we don’t think of her and remember the good times we shared.”
Anna was deeply involved in her hometown, volunteering in her grandparents’ 55-plus community and helping at local small businesses. Those who knew her describe her as selfless and outgoing, someone whose smile could brighten anyone’s day.
“She was a people person,” her family said. “She loved being around people and had that type of energy that just drew you in.”
The FBI continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death. Carnival Cruise Line officials said they are cooperating fully with federal authorities.
